As always your thoughts, ideas, feedback, suggestions, etc. are always welcomed!
-MsKeke

With the winning hand of radio, James Fortune stands tall as a star in today’s gospel world. Counting his radio smash “I Trust You” and “You Survived,” two exceptional power ballads that pattern the gloried musical paces of Kirk Franklin, Fortune and his troupe FIYA have taking the contemporary gospel playing field by storm, even if it’s very familiar to the Franklin brand. The chatter of Fortune’s talked-out, mostly preached ad-libs to the light whispers from the choral layouts are obvious giveaways to the cherishing pop-like gospel traditions of Franklin’s arsenal. But where Fortune stumbles severely is in his albums’ presentation – crowded with a maximum list of guest singers, busy rhythm sections and the departure from traditional melody. Thankfully, one or two songs rise up as the album’s bread and butter, but Fortune, a better song writer and musician than he is a front man, learns a few important lessons along the way and applies them wittingly on his third record, Encore.

Read entire review by J. Matt at PrayzeHymnOnline: PrayzeHymnOnline.com

Being a heir of music greatness has its share of high expectations. Myron Butler knows about that. He once shared the song writing credits with gospel stallwarth Kirk Franklin and led the popular youthful ensemble God’s Property into stardom; planting them into the history books of 1990′s contemporary gospel music. His own works have documented many albums from gospel’s biggest stars (Twinkie Clark, Smokie Norful, T.D, Jakes, Marvin Sapp, DFW Mass Choir). It made sense for Butler, after GP folded into its unfortunate disparity, to strike out on his own. Already two albums in, Myron Butler tries to change his pace some by placing his group, Levi, before a live recording audience and by expanding his turf to cover the acoustic reflective worship in most Contemporary Christian records of today. The first two songs summarizes some of his expeditions into risky chord changes, bold harmonies and melody-bending surmising. The album opener, “Revealed,” works like a sparkling gospel-energized update of MJ’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin” but with a load of intricate funky horn buzzes and call-and-response moments.” Kirk Franklin makes an appearance with Butler on the Motown -meets-Barry White “Just Can’t Live.” Think of the opening of Barry White’s “You’re the First, My Last, My Everything” and the Supremes’ “You Just Keep Me Hangin’ On” and that’s what you get here. “Just Can’t Live” seems like an apropos match, but somehow the song losses steam halfway into the song as it ascends up a chain of mountainous choral and musical shifts. While the vamp, decorated with “ahhs” and lengthy crescendos, tends to keep the momentum going, it takes listeners away from the spunky drive. The last time you hear this kind of tempo and groove is at the tail end of the record, with the go-go partyness of “Covered.” The rest of the record is Butler incorporating pop worship into convoluted gospel harmonics.

Read entire review by J. Matt at PrayzeHymnOnline: http://prayzehymnonline.com

With his sophomore project 20/20, not only does Trip Lee challenge all listeners to evaluate every area of life through the lens of Scripture, but also desires for the listener to have a proper view of God and how they are to relate to Him. Trip set out to encourage seekers, as well children of the King, to see God as He has revealed Himself. In Christian hip hop it is easy to merely focus on the horizontal necessities of the faith. Trip Lee urges us not to forsake the importance of our vertical understanding and worship of Jehovah.

The album 20/20 showcases a more diverse sound from a more mature artist. While serving at a local church and attending Bible college in Philadelphia, Trip has been challenged, not only in his personal growth, but also in his contribution to the growth of others. A southern swagger and love for the East Coast sound brings a unique stylistic mixture and the album satisfies a diverse blend of musical tastes. 20/20 offers the listener everything from southern bass to live instrumentation. There are feature guest appearances from all Reach artists (Lecrae, Tedashii, and Sho Baraka). Flame, JR, Diamone, Cam and shai linne also lend their giftings to his sophomore project. Production credits range from Joe Prielozny (notable Amped Producer), veterans DJ Official and Tony Stone, to promising newcomer G Styles. 20/20 provides the fan with 15 tracks of non-stop banging exaltation.

Music can easily deceive the listener with aspirations of shallow and futile desires. But Trip’s primary goal is for the listener to fall more in love with God. Once we have an accurate view of God the Father, Christ the Son and the Holy Spirit, then we can begin intimacy with Him. Trip Lee’s prayer is that through the album listeners will be introduced to Christ Jesus and His people will rejoice and reflect on His goodness.

SOURCE: http://myspace.com/triplee116

For more, please visit http://RhemaSoul.com

The Atlanta Gospelfest Music & Health Care Festival is a two day musical extravaganza designed to elevate your spirits while educating your mind, body and soul with an array gospel music concerts, a series gospel music industry workshops and panels, wealth & finance empowerment segments presented by Hakeem Webb Founder of Kingdom Business International Ministries and a multitude of health care services for the entire family. The Atlanta Gospelfest is proud to embrace the participation of Caribbean artist in Atlanta and throughout the world. This festival features Gospel Artist like: Dr. Dorinda Clarke Cole, The Canton Spirituals, Papa San Tim Rogers, The Gospel Legends The Swannee Quintet just to mention a few while showcasing up and coming artist from across the country. The Atlanta Gospelfest embraces many genre’s of Gospel Arts you will see exclusive Fashion Show presentations from Atlanta’s own Asato Agency and coming from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Oh Happy Day Fashions

Other activities include Drama & Comedy presentations, Holy Hip Hop a free kid zone, puppets and more for your enjoyment. There will be lots of games, door prizes, exhibits and vendors you are sure to have a good time.

This event is produced and facilitated by the Leading Women’s Repertory Theatre/Lac1Productions under the direction of Dr. RIKI BROOKS who is the CEO/Festival Producer for Gospelfest 2009, 2008 & 2007 not to mention an established Gospel Artist and a seasoned veterans of the arts with notable shows like: “Dreamgirls”, “Aint Misbehavin”, “Lil Shop of Horrors” just to name a few and a former contestant of Miss Baltimore & Miss Black America. She has received numerous awards and commendations from the City of Atlanta and prides herself on bringing quality entertainment into the city of Atlanta Metropolitan area. For more information log onto to website www.atlantagospelfest.com or contact us sponsorship and vending opportunities are available.

Tickets for this event are $ 10.00 for general admission
Concerts are $ 35.00 & 25.00 in advance per show
Doors for conference open 4pm Friday August 13th until 1pm
Saturday 9am until 1am

SOURCE: AtlantaGospelFest.com

Micah Stampley, a powerful, multi-octave and gifted artist is leading the way to the new generation of gospel music.  His debut CD, The Songbook of Micah hit the music charts as the second-highest debut for a Male Gospel Artist in Billboard’s history at #3 and was acknowledged as “one of the Top 11 Gospel Artist of 2005.”

With a staggering powerful and sensitive voice and an inspired writer’s hand in music and words he has become one of gospel’s most talked-about talents.

Mathew Knowles, Founder, President and C.E.O. of Music World Entertainment states, “When I look at the talent and what we are building at our Spirit Rising Music gospel label with Trin-i-tee 5:7, Brian Courtney Wilson, Pastor Rudy, the new signing of Dr. Juanita Bynum and now with Micah, who is a brilliant artist with the success in Praise and Worship, I am grateful.”

From his birth in Los Angeles to his humble youth in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Micah developed a profound music talent at a young age that has led to a celebrated journey.  In 2004, the Stellar Awards named him as the 1st Stellar Award Star Search Winner.  In addition, in 2006 he received two Stellar Award nominations for “Male Vocalist of the Year” and “New Artist of the Year.  2008 brought more nominations for “Praise and Worship Album of the Year” and “Contemporary Male Vocalist of the Year.”  That same year his “I Believe” music video debuted at #1 on the Gospel Music Channel and remained there for five weeks receiving a nomination for “Best Soul Video of the Year.”  His staying power was cemented.  This year, Micah received a fifth Stellar Award nomination for his CD, “Ransomed” as “Praise and Worship Album of the Year.”

Speaking of the new venture with MWE / Spirit Rising, Micah says, “The unique partnership we’ve created is a pivotal step in my journey to leave a legacy for my children and spread my wings into my other artistic passions.  My goal has always been to assist people in getting into a deeper intimacy and relationship with God.”

He is a minister, husband, father of five, musician and leading community philanthropist.  He also has a unique royal distinction.  His Royal Majesty King Adamtey I, Se Suapolar of the Se (Shai) Kingdom of Ghana, West Africa, adopted Stampley as his son.  Prince Micah Martey along with his wife, Heidi, hopes to one day build a school of the performing arts in Se Kingdom.

Micah and Heidi’s non-profit, “Operation I Believe, Inc” a 501 (c) (3) organization, launched in 2006 with platforms that include humanitarian and outreach initiatives.

Micah has been featured in Ebony, Upscale, Charisma and a host of other magazines.  He is a regular musical guest on TBN’s “Praise The Lord” and has performed on BET Celebration of Gospel, Gospel Music Channel, World Network and INSP Christian Networks.  AOL Black Voices named Micah as “one of the Top 10 Gospel Geniuses.”  Micah is currently a Benny Hinn Psalmist and travels with him to crusades and events around the world.

Talented.  Anointed. Inspired. Driven. Dedicated.  Michael Stampley is a music phenomenon on the rise and a leading voice in the future of gospel.

For more information on Micah visit:  http://myspace.com/micahstampley

About Spirit Rising Music

Spirit Rising Music is the premiere faith-based and inspirational label under the umbrella of Music World Music.   With a track history of producing #1 albums and acclaimed music ventures, the Spirit Rising roster of top recording artists and projects include: Brian Courtney Wilson, Trin-i-tee 5:7,  Juanita Bynum, Pastor Rudy Rasmus, Michelle Williams and Best of Gospel Superfest.   Billboard named Spirit Rising Music in the list of Top 10 Gospel Songs Labels for 2009.  Spirit Rising Music is a division of Music World Entertainment.

About Music World Entertainment

World Entertainment (MWE) is headed by Mathew Knowles Founder, President and C.E.O.  Music World Entertainment is one of the world’s leading entertainment and music conglomerates dedicated to bringing quality entertainment.  The MWE worldwide platforms include successful record label ventures, recording artist and producer management services, artist development services, a master catalog series, film ventures, television productions, licensed and merchandise products, sports endeavors, community philanthropic work and investment and property holdings.   The Houston headquarters is home to a performance and event facility, House of Dereon Media Center, hosting special events including charity galas, corporate parties and private functions.   MWE has offices in Houston, New York, Los Angeles and London.

 SOURCE Music World Entertainment

EMI Gospel artist and GRAMMY winner Smokie Norful boldly merges the two halves of his career—artistry and church ministry—with the release of two new projects, the innovative devotional series Worship & A Word and the debut recording of his church choir Smokie Norful presents The Victory Cathedral Choir.  Both projects are available in stores and online now.

 While the tradition of the singing preacher has a long history in the African American church, Worship & A Word marks the first time a major Gospel artist has married his role as an active pastor to his artistry on the same album.  Each installment in the series contains a full-length sermon along with a bonus studio recording, which is reflective of the sermon’s theme.  All sermons in the series were recorded live at Victory Cathedral Worship Center, the thriving Chicago-area church founded by Norful in 2005.

 “When I started pastoring five years ago, I literally took off from the music industry for almost 2 years because my main focus was building the church,” Norful reveals.  “My natural love, gift and anointing for preaching grew to the point where that’s really what I wanted to do.  I thought music was the only thing I was made for, but this was what I was really made for.  In order to combine both ministries I put together this model.”

In keeping with the truly unique nature of the project, three installments of the series—“The Myth Of Unmet Needs,” “Matters Of The Heart” and “According To Your Faith”—were released simultaneously through TreMyles/EMI Gospel, the joint label venture owned by Norful and the company that has been his recording home for more than a decade.  Each devotional carries a retail price of $5.98.

 To further celebrate the success of Norful’s church ministry, TreMyles/EMI Gospel has also released Smokie Norful presents The Victory Cathedral Choir.  The high-energy, 10-song collection, which debuted at #4 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart, was recorded live in Chicago.  The project captures the essence of the Sunday worship experience at the ministry’s two locations—the West Suburban and South Campuses of Victory Cathedral Worship Center. 

 Norful’s vision for his church choir is steeped in the rich tradition of Chicago’s legendary choral ensembles, with one major exception: “Most of the Chicago choirs have been community-based,” says Norful.  “The Victory Cathedral Choir is distinct in that these are regular, lay-choir members who are not professional singers.  The majority of our singers are regular churchgoers who do not have a professional musical background.  They’re just excited to be able to serve in the ministry.”

 In fact, the commitment to service is a core ideal for the choir.  Members of Victory Cathedral Choir are required to serve in other auxiliaries in the church in order to be eligible for the choir.  Their participation extends to meal and clothing programs with shelters for the homeless and battered women, as well as ongoing outreach efforts to college and high school students and their faculty in the communities surrounding the church’s two campuses.

 “The reality is they are not just a choir who sings.  This is a choir who serves,” Norful says.  “That dynamic is very exciting for me as a pastor.  What a wonderful thing to be able to marry both of my passions—music and ministry—without comprising the integrity of either one in any way.”